| This October half term, why not brighten up the | | | | different parts, some of which are vibrant and |
| dreary days with a fantastic trip abroad skiing in | | | | bustling, while others are more peaceful. Set in the |
| France? Spend some time with family on the | | | | Vanoise National Park, you'll find tranquil areas that |
| slopes in the beautiful regions of Val D'Isere or | | | | contrast with the centre of Merbiel, which is alive |
| Meribel for a really memorable break. | | | | with energy. |
| If you chose to whisk your loved ones off for | | | | This is especially true in March, when the resort |
| some half term skiing in Val D'Isere, you'll be | | | | hosts the Altitude music festival, while the rest of |
| visiting one of France's most exclusive resorts. | | | | the year there are bars and clubs for evening |
| Situated in the Rhone-Alpes region, the resort | | | | entertainment after a hard day on the snow, |
| affords beautiful mountain views and 300 km of | | | | while the hamlet of Mussillon and the wooded area |
| piste to cover. | | | | of Altiport are at the other end of the scale and |
| The location is a great spot for a skiing holiday as | | | | great places to relax in peace. |
| it caters for all levels of skier - from beginner to | | | | Venture onto the slopes at Altiport and you'll find |
| advanced - with its varied slopes. Most of the | | | | lots of gentle runs lined with trees that are |
| runs are suitable for novices, but there are some | | | | perfect for beginners or those looking to take |
| tougher areas that even experts will find | | | | things easy. Higher up on the Saulire, meanwhile, |
| challenging, with the highest pistes measuring | | | | are steeper areas that are more taxing for |
| more than 3,000 metres in height. | | | | advanced skiers. |
| And off the slopes, you'll find the region charming. | | | | Red Combe Vallon in Meribel Valley is one of the |
| Made up of small hamlets, Val D'Isere is full of | | | | best runs, stretching for 1,000 metres, and if |
| examples of traditional architecture, with chalets | | | | you're feeling up for a real challenge, you might |
| built from wood, stone and metal. In the evenings, | | | | give the Face run a try. The steep slope was |
| the many tourists visiting the area gather in the | | | | created for the 1992 Olympic ladies' downhill |
| centre, which becomes a thriving hub full of | | | | event. |
| people in the party spirit. | | | | Whether you decide on Meribel or Val D'Isere, |
| But for an even livelier atmosphere, you might | | | | your family is sure to love spending half term |
| chose a skiing holiday in Meribel, located in the | | | | skiing in France. |
| French Alps. The resort is split into a number of | | | | |
